WrestleMania 42 to Feature First Hour on ESPN and ESPN2
WrestleMania 42 is set to break latest ground in broadcasting, with the first hour of both nights airing live on ESPN networks. This marks the first time a portion of a WWE Premium Live Event (PLE) will be broadcast on ESPN’s linear television channels.
Broadcast Schedule and Details
The first hour of WrestleMania 42, Night One, will be broadcast live on ESPN2 on Saturday, April 18th. Night Two’s opening hour will air on ESPN on Sunday, April 19th. Both nights will begin at 6:00 pm ET / 3:00 pm PT. WrestleView and Cageside Seats confirmed the new start time on February 27th and 28th, 2026, respectively.
Streaming Options
While the first hour will be available on cable television, the remainder of WrestleMania 42 will be streamed on ESPN Unlimited in the United States and on Netflix internationally. SEScoops reports that ESPN Unlimited subscriptions cost $29.99/month.
Significance of the Broadcast Deal
This broadcast arrangement is part of WWE’s broader partnership with ESPN, which began hosting all main roster PLEs exclusively on ESPN Unlimited last fall, starting with WrestlePalooza in September. WrestleView highlights that this move increases accessibility for fans who may not subscribe to streaming services.
Confirmed Matches
As of February 28, 2026, the following matches have been announced for WrestleMania 42:
- World Heavyweight Championship Match: CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns
- Women’s World Championship Match: Stephanie Vaquer vs. Liv Morgan
- Undisputed WWE Championship Match: Drew McIntyre vs. Men’s Elimination Chamber winner
- WWE Women’s Championship Match: Jade Cargill vs. Women’s Elimination Chamber winner
- Open Challenge: Brock Lesnar vs. TBD
Event Location
WrestleMania 42 will take place at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, just outside of Las Vegas, for the second consecutive year. WrestleView confirmed the location.